Rev. Michael Rodriguez: Catholics must oppose sinful actions

On Jan. 18, City Council decided to reword its proposed "non-discrimination" amendment to the Charter of the City of El Paso.

Let City Council be forewarned. A majority of El Paso's voters already rejected an agenda that seeks to equate same-sex unions with the venerable institution of marriage.

It is morally incumbent upon City Council to cease efforts to manipulate and define the term "non-discrimination" in such a way as to suit a misguided, if not pernicious, agenda.

If City Council is obstinate in pursuing its course of action and dragging the city through another election, this will be a glaring display of arrogance, fiscal irresponsibility and disrespect toward the Nov. 2 vote of the majority of El Paso's citizens.

Even more importantly, it will be morally wrong. Why?

It's morally reprehensible to misconstrue "non-discrimination" in such ways as to give public sanction to "lifestyles" that are gravely sinful and harmful to the common good of our city.

My friends, don't be deceived by the mellifluous catchwords of "tolerance" and "equality." In truth, we're facing a deliberate attempt on the part of our local government to initiate the legalization of same-sex unions.

This is completely immoral. No Catholic nor person of goodwill can accept this assault on the institution of marriage.

As Roman Catholics, there's no question that it's our sacred duty before Almighty God to vote against any amendment to the City Charter that undermines marriage.

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Every single Catholic has an absolute moral obligation to oppose sexual immorality and defend the Sacrament of Matrimony, instituted by Jesus Christ Himself.

Moreover, there is now a group calling itself "El Pasoans for Equality" whose homosexual agenda is in direct conflict with the truth and the teachings of Jesus Christ and His Holy Church. No Catholic may participate in or support this group. Doing so would mean placing oneself outside of communion with the Catholic Church.

In summary, the maleficent agenda which lurks behind the actions of City Council and has given rise to the group "El Pasoans for Equality" is an affront to God, our Catholic religion, human reason, marriage and the family.

This homosexual agenda is in direct violation of: (1) the Sixth and Ninth Commandments, (2) the infallible moral teachings of the Catholic Church (Catechism #2357), (3) natural law and the most rudimentary moral code, (4) recent pronouncements by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (Dec. 29, 1975; Oct. 1, 1986; July 23, 1992; June 3, 2003), and (5) the 2009 pastoral letter on marriage by our nation's Catholic bishops.

Jesus Christ's greatest gift to the world is Himself, inseparably united to His Holy Catholic Church. His infinite love becomes incarnate in the sacramental life of the Church.

Holy Mother Church has a great, wondrous and tender love for all her children, regardless of "sexual orientation." She is committed to treating all persons with love, dignity, and respect. However, the Church is also categorically opposed to sinful actions.

Jesus Christ's truth radiates forth in the teachings of His Church. If any person is engaging in sinful sexual activity, we Catholics are called to practice love and compassion, above all, by leading the person to the truth, and helping the sinner to renounce sinful behavior.

Remember, the supreme law of the Church is the salvation of souls!

In His love for poor sinners, Jesus always called them to turn away from sin and embrace God's law. "Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love." (John 15:10)

Father Michael Rodríguez is the parish priest at San Juan Bautista Catholic Church.